BMW will launch a mid-range MPV aimed at larger families in 2015, to complete its ‘Project i’ series of upcoming electric vehicles.

Although the first ‘i’ model — the i3 — hasn’t even hit the roads yet, BMW executives are already planning to augment the range.

Essentially, the proposed i5 is designed to compete with models such as the recently launched Toyota Prius V, an enlarged version of the hybrid bestseller which can seat up to seven passengers and offers plenty of cabin space.

German luxury automaker BMW will launch a new range of M Performance Automobiles during the Geneva Auto Show in March.

These models are intended to bridge the gap between the full-fledged M models, such as the M3 or M5, and the lesser standard models with current sport packages.

The idea is to deliver more engaging, highly sporty vehicles without the full price premium of an M model, or the drawbacks of harsher ride qualities.

Update: BMW announced January 5 that US sales totaled 247,907 throughout 2011, beating Mercedes-Benz to the top spot by just 2,715 vehicles.

In a first, two German manufacturers — Mercedes-Benz and BMW – are dueling for the honor of being the top luxury brand sold in the United States.

Right now, BMW holds a slight lead, but US sales for Mercedes surged in November, climbing more than 40 percent.

BMW has unveiled the 6-Series Gran Coupe. Designed to battle the Mercedes CLS, the sedan measures 4.4 inches (111 mm) longer than the 6-Series Coupe.

The exterior styling is instantly recognizable but highlights include xenon headlights and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The car will hit USA showrooms with three models: a 3.0L 315 hp Twin Turbo V6, a 4.4L 415 hp Twin Turbo V8, and all wheel drive “xDrive” model with the same V8.

BMW will introduce the next generation of head lights – laser lighting on its BMW i8 – that could cut energy use in half compared to LED lights.

The laser beam headlights will be twice as efficient as LEDs, and can be up to 1,000 times stronger.

BMW will use miniscule 10-micron long laser diodes, which is 100 times smaller than LED units, in the vehicle.

BMW has given out the first details and images of its i3 and i8 models before the concepts are shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show

One of the most notable features of the new design is a bodywork largely made of carbon fibre, described by BMW as a “revolution in automotive design.”

The new material, which has never been used for a car body on a volume-production scale before, offers a weight reduction of between 250 and 350 kilograms, which should considerably lengthen the range and speed of the electric vehicles.